Retiring employee invitations show others the company values loyalty.
Retiring employees set a positive example for other workers. Sometimes, a retiring employee has spent decades with the company, worked hard and leaves behind a legacy of knowledge for others to use. Throwing a retirement party for a departing worker shows remaining employees that you value company loyalty. The wording on the invitation sets the stage for the party ambiance. It also provides a chance to showcase some of the departing employee's career highlights
Instructions
Informal Party
1. Find a humorous retirement quote to include with the invitation. Such quotes can be found online. Use one that is appropriate to the person who is retiring. For example, a married employee might enjoy a joke about trading in being told what to do by one boss for being told what to do by his spouse.
2. Use the email subject line to announce the employee's retirement decision. For example, the subject line might read: "Mary Jo Skinner is retiring!" Use the first and last names of the pending retiree in the subject line to avoid confusion with same-named employees.
3. Use the body of the email to announce the employee's retirement decision. Include his length of time with the company, the different positions held and when the effective retirement date will be. Write a paragraph detailing the employee's accomplishments, earned certifications and promotions received.
Also announce the time, date and location of the party in a clear, separate paragraph. If there will be a theme, let the recipient know what it is. If the party is a surprise, it should be stated in the subject line to avoid accidental revelations.
4. Request a return RSVP email to a central email address. Request the recipient to disclose whether he will bring a guest such as a spouse or significant other to the event, so the proper amount of food can be prepared.
5. Check a return receipt if the email program has such a function. This provides notification when the email invitation has been opened. If, as the event draws near, some guests have not opened their invitations, send a follow-up email or place a phone call reminding the recipients to open it.
Formal Event
6. Use a color scheme that underscores the company colors and logo. For example, if the company logo is electric blue and white, the invitation can be an electric blue background with white lettering. Use a formal font to denote the importance of the occasion.
7. Include a program for the evening that gives the approximate time for each event. A speaker, dinner and entertainment should be detailed with time frames alongside each name. This provides the invitee with an idea of how much time to set aside to attend.
8. Use bifold or trifold heavy paper for formal invitations. Send them to the invitee's homes and include an RSVP card with a self-addressed stamped envelope so they can let you know if they will attend. Clearly detail whether the invitees are allowed to bring guests by including a guest RSVP card in the envelope.
9. Inform the potential guests of the dress code. This can be printed along the bottom in a font slightly smaller than the rest of the wording. Black tie and dinner dress are two commonly used dress codes for formal retirement party invitations.
10. Mail invitations one month before the event will be held. This gives invitees time to plan the evening, obtain attire and hire sitters if needed.
Tags: subject line, announce employee, announce employee retirement, being told, being told what